Sri Lanka promise a different show

Cricket fans in India will see a vastly improved Sri Lanka in the upcoming Champions Trophy one-day tournament, captain Mahela Jayawardene predicted here in Delhi on Sunday.

Sri Lanka's pride was severely dented when they toured India last October, losing 6-1 in a one-day series against Rahul Dravid's Indians.

“We have learnt from our mistakes,” Jayawardene told reporters.

“When we came here last time, we faced initial difficulties following new rules (power play and super sub) which gave so much importance to the toss, but I think we have improved since then.” Sri Lankan coach Tom Moody echoed the same sentiments. “A lot of water has gone down the bridge since then. We are not the same team that visited India last time. We are now a better, stronger unit,” said Moody, a former Australian one-day specialist.

“A lot of young guys have come and done well in international cricket.

There is a significant improvement, especially in fielding.”

The Indian drubbing also saw Sri Lanka slip in the rankings. They were not among the top six sides, who have been given direct entry into the Champions Trophy main draw based on rankings in April this year.

Sri Lanka will now play qualifying matches against defending champions West Indies, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe. The top two teams will join the elite six.

They open their campaign on October 7 against Bangladesh at Mohali.

“The focus now is on playing qualifying matches which will help our players adjust to Indian conditions before the main tournament starts,” said Moody.

Sri Lanka are looking forward to a better performance from their bowlers on low, slow Indian tracks.

“Bowling is crucial in these conditions,” said Jayawardene.

“I think spinners will play a key role, but it is also necessary for fast bowler to vary pace. The batsmen need to apply themselves.”- (AFP)